2 dogs killed in Coolbaugh house fire

Two dogs were the only confirmed losses in a fire in Coolbaugh Township Tuesday night.

Firefighters were called to Wild Cherry Lane, just off Route 196, around 5:30 p.m. for a structure fire.

When crews arrived the home's attached garage was in flames, and the blaze was spreading to the living area, according to fire officials. The home belongs to one of the company's volunteers, officials said. No one was home when the fire started.

The homeowner's two dogs were unable to escape, according to Coolbaugh Fire Co. Assistant Chief Paul Denico. The first firefighters on scene attempted to go in and rescue the dogs, but were unable to because of the fire conditions, Denico said. He said the homeowner also owned cats, but their condition was not known.

Firefighters had to ferry water to fight the blaze because a fire hydrant at Wild Cherry Drive and Route 196 was not providing enough flow.

Coolbaugh was assisted by firefighters from Pocono Summit, Barrett Township and Tobyhanna Army Depot.